WSJ Tech News Briefing: Why the New Frontier for Battle Drones Is Underwater

Episode Release Date: January 6, 2025

Introduction

In the January 6, 2025, episode of WSJ’s Tech News Briefing, host Julie Chang explores two pivotal topics reshaping the technological landscape: the enhanced use of Apple AirTags for tracking lost luggage and the emerging frontier of underwater battle drones in modern warfare. This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the discussions, key insights, and expert analyses presented in the episode.

Enhancing Luggage Tracking with Apple AirTags

Seamless Integration with Airlines

Julie Chang opens the episode by addressing a common traveler anxiety—lost luggage—and introduces Apple's AirTags as a solution. Alistair McDonald, WSJ’s personal tech columnist, elaborates on how AirTags, powered by Apple’s expansive device network, are transforming luggage tracking.

Optimal Placement for Effective Tracking

At [01:47], McDonald emphasizes the importance of AirTag placement:

“Airtags run by Bluetooth rules, and that basically means it is dictated by the physics of wireless signals. Materials like glass metal can be obstructive to wireless signals.”

He advises travelers to attach AirTags to the sides of their luggage rather than mixing them with clothing to prevent signal interference from materials like metal or glass jar lids.

Leveraging Software Updates

Discussing the latest software enhancements, McDonald highlights the significance of updating Apple devices:

“The latest update 18.2 rolled out the ability to share your airtag location with third parties such as airlines.” [02:40]

This update allows users to generate a web link of their AirTag’s location, which can be shared directly with participating airlines like United, Delta, and British Airways, facilitating quicker retrieval of lost bags.

Airline Participation

When asked about airlines involved, McDonald lists several major carriers:

“Some airlines that have already signed up for this airtags integration are Delta, Air Canada, Turkish Airlines, Aer Lingus, Lufthansa, Swissair, Eurowings, British Airways, and Iberia.” [03:34]

Android Alternatives and Other Trackers

Addressing Android users, McDonald explains that while Google’s Find My app offers similar functionalities, Apple’s network remains more extensive due to automatic device integration:

“The Google Find My Network is not as powerful as Apple's Find My Network because all Apple devices are opted into this network privately and automatically.” [03:53]

He also mentions other tracking options from companies like Tile, Pebblebee, and Chipolo, which offer diverse features such as rechargeable batteries and slim designs ideal for items like passports or wallets.

The New Frontier: Underwater Battle Drones

Shift to Underwater Warfare

Transitioning to the main focus, Julie Chang introduces the burgeoning interest in underwater drones for military applications. Alistair McDonald and Danny Lewis delve into why defense sectors are turning their attention beneath the waves.

Driving Factors Behind Underwater Drone Development

At [06:17], McDonald explains the motivations:

“Navies have started to think about potential common conflicts, particularly in the Asia Pacific, where strategists believe a large component of it would be naval.”

Lewis adds that concerns over subsea infrastructure security, such as cables and pipelines, are prompting investments in advanced underwater surveillance technologies.

Capabilities and Strategic Uses

Underwater drones are primarily being developed for surveillance and intelligence:

“Primarily would be a surveillance intelligence role. For instance, analyzing ship movements and seeing ships on the surface…” [07:50]

These drones can monitor naval activities, map seafloors, and secure harbors, offering strategic advantages without the high costs associated with traditional submarines.

Technological Challenges

Developing underwater drones presents unique challenges compared to their aerial counterparts. At [10:10], McDonald highlights the primary obstacles:

“Radio waves don't really travel underwater, and traditionally submarines have used acoustic communications. It's quite difficult, particularly for a smaller drone.”

This necessitates autonomous operations with periodic surface communications, adding complexity to drone design and functionality.

Advanced Features and Survivability

To meet military demands, these drones must be highly survivable and equipped with superior sensors and cameras:

“They have to be that much more survivable… traveling much further and much deeper. The sensors and the cameras on board are going to be that much more high end.” [08:20]

Leading Developers and Global Engagement

Several major defense contractors are spearheading the development of underwater drones. McDonald lists notable models and their creators:

• Ghost Shark by Anguril for the Australian Navy
• Manta Ray by Northrop Grumman
• Orca by Boeing for the US Navy
• Hearn by BAE Systems

He notes that “every major military power is doing them now,” including Germany, France, South Korea, China, and Russia, signifying a global arms race in underwater drone technology.

Current and Future Prospects

While long-range autonomous underwater drones are still in the developmental phase, existing models offer substantial improvements over previous technologies. These advancements are laying the groundwork for broader military applications and enhanced naval capabilities.

Conclusion

The episode of Tech News Briefing provides a deep dive into how technology is revolutionizing both everyday experiences and modern warfare. From enhancing the reliability of luggage tracking with Apple AirTags to pioneering the next generation of underwater battle drones, the discussions underscore the rapid pace of technological innovation and its profound implications across various sectors.

Notable Quotes:

• Alistair McDonald on AirTag Placement:
  “Airtags run by Bluetooth rules, and that basically means it is dictated by the physics of wireless signals.” [01:47]

• McDonald on Software Updates:
  “The latest update 18.2 rolled out the ability to share your airtag location with third parties such as airlines.” [02:40]

• Lewis on Underwater Drone Use:
  “Primarily would be a surveillance intelligence role. For instance, analyzing ship movements and seeing ships on the surface…” [07:50]

• McDonald on Communication Challenges:
  “Radio waves don't really travel underwater, and traditionally submarines have used acoustic communications…” [10:10]

This episode highlights the dual impact of consumer and military technology advancements, offering listeners valuable insights into the evolving tech landscape.